Liquid fillable portable exercise apparatus

ABSTRACT

A liquid filled portable exercise apparatus consisting of a portable assembly that may be easily transportable in a suitcase for travel consisting of a single or multiple removable, resilient and liquid or water fillable bladder center section(s) within a closed form, nearly circular, or elliptical in shape, handle section allowing the user to use it in a similar manner as that of a Kettle Ball as well as a weighted exercise bar. Some implementations can include a handle as well as resilient and collapsible bladders that are designed, without liquid or water, to lay nearly flat in a suitcase and allow for easy attachment of one or more collapsible bladders that can be filled with various levels of liquid or water commensurate with the desired weight required by the user for a specific exercise routine. Typically, the user would completely fill the bladders.

This application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 61/583,389, entitled “Liquid Filled Portable Exercise Apparatus,” filed on Jan. 5, 2012.

FIELD

The disclosed subject matter relates generally to athletic equipment, and more particularly to a portable liquid filled exercise apparatus having one or multiple liquid (e.g. water) filled bladder(s) affixed to a generally circular or oval shaped handle where the handle configuration enables a plurality of additional exercises that may not be possible using convention exercise apparatus systems. Additionally, some implementations may provide for user safety, as the components that contain the weight bearing elements, or bladders, are soft and flexible, thereby reducing or minimizing the risk of injury.

BACKGROUND

Portable exercise equipment, in various forms, have been known for many years. One of the recently more popular types of portable exercise apparatus are various types of portable dumbbells and the like to address the needs of users who want to be able to travel with their equipment. It can be difficult to travel with conventional dumbbells, as they are typically heavy, by design and necessity.

Accordingly, many types of liquid or water fillable dumbbells, and the like, have become more common recently in order to permit easily carrying of these dumbbells or the like in a suitcase or the like, without taking up too much room or being overly heavy, especially for airline travel.

One significant problem with liquid or water fillable dumbbells may be the lack of easy adjustability of weight in order to provide the user with a selection of weight values depending on the exercise routine to be performed. Another significant problem may be that a dumbbell set does not offer the same range of exercises as that offered by implementations of the disclosed subject matter

Conventional exercise devices can include kettle bells, medicine balls, free-weights, and dumb bells. Simple kettle bells and medicine balls are well known in the prior art; however, none of these prior art devices disclose a removable weight system with a closed form handle that can be held with either one or two hands. Additionally, kettle bells may not be safe to use because they are usually fabricated out of hard iron like materials.

Conventional exercise systems may not include a single device that can be adapted to fulfill the goals of various exercise routines in one portable piece of exercise equipment. Some implementations were conceived in light of the above-mentioned problems and limitations among other things.

SUMMARY

In general, some implementations may provide an athletic apparatus having one or more weighted, resilient bladder assemblies that can be removably attached to the handle allowing for one-handed or two-handed use. Also, some implementations can include a two handed dumb bell with a resilient construction and the attachment of two handles to one kettle ball-like structure for performing exercises.

Using the apparatus with two hands provides for an exercise apparatus that can be used in various two handed exercises including, but not limited to: “lift curl and reach”, “kneeling side chop”, “weighted crunch”, “upright row”, “skull crusher”, “overhead triceps extensions” and/or the like. These exercises allow for various kneeling and stretching exercises to strengthen and stretch the shoulders as well as the upper and lower back.

The apparatus can be used in various one-handed exercises such as, but not limited to: “kick back”, “half get up”, “curls”, “one arm row”, “military press”, and “one arm triceps extension”.

Some implementations may provide an athletic apparatus having user advantages, portability features, and safety features. Some implementations may provide an athletic apparatus that enables a great number of exercises through its capability to be safely used with either one or two hands without the need for the user making any modifications to the apparatus. The removable weight system can be secured to the handle using various locking mechanisms.

Some implementations can include weight bearing elements or bladder assemblies can be easily filled with liquid or water in a standard bathroom sink providing for ease of use. Additionally, in some implementations, the weight bearing elements or bladder assemblies can be easily emptied of liquid or water for fast and easy transport in a suitcase or the like.

Other features and advantages provided by one or more implementations will become apparent from the following detailed description, taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 is a top perspective view of an example exercise apparatus showing the use of two weight bearing elements (or bladders) secured to a handle using thumb screws in accordance with at least one embodiment.

FIG. 2 is a bottom perspective view of an example implementation showing the use of two weight bearing elements secured to the handle using thumb screws in accordance with at least one embodiment.

FIG. 3 is a top view of an example implementation showing the top weight bearing element secured to the handle using thumb screws in accordance with at least one embodiment.

FIG. 4 is a side view of an example implementation showing the use of two weight bearing elements secured to the handle using thumb screws in accordance with at least one embodiment.

FIG. 5 is an exploded perspective view of an example implementation showing the use of two weight bearing elements secured to the handle using thumb screws in accordance with at least one embodiment.

FIG. 6 is an exploded perspective view of an example implementation with the lower bladder assembly removed to show the use of one weight bearing element in accordance with at least one embodiment.

FIG. 7 is an exploded perspective view of an example implementation with the lower bladder assembly removed showing the use of one weight bearing element in accordance with at least one embodiment. The handle is shown with the lower portion of it removed from the drawing to illustrate construction details.

FIG. 9 is a top view of one embodiment that has the trademark name of KoreBall.

FIG. 10 is a bottom view of one embodiment that has the trademark name of KoreBall.

FIG. 8 is a perspective view of an example implementation with the handle removed and showing one of the weight bearing elements and where it can be secured to the handle using thumb screws in accordance with at least one embodiment.

FIG. 11 is a perspective view of an example apparatus showing the use with the middle weight bearing element, or bladder, of FIG. 12, secured to the handle in accordance with at least one embodiment. The fill port can be seen that allows the bladder to be emptied of liquid or water for easy transport.

FIG. 12 is a perspective view of FIG. 1 illustrating three exemplary sizes of weight bearing elements in accordance with at least one embodiment. This embodiment, shown as a “modular system”, shows the use of an exemplary three differing sizes of weight bearing elements, or bladders that can be quickly changed during an exercise routine. Any number of weight bearing elements may be utilized.

FIG. 13 is a view showing one of the many methods of fastening the weight bearing element to the handle. In this figure a fastening system consisting of a hook on the handle and a hole in the bladder assembly is shown in accordance with at least one embodiment.

FIG. 14 is a perspective view of an exemplary fill and drain valve that can permit easy filling in a bathroom sink, for example. The fill and drain valve can be configured as a simple plug, or a threaded plug, a simple cap similar to a bottle cap, or a threaded plug with an O-Ring to seal the weight bearing element, or bladder.

FIG. 15 is a top perspective view of an example apparatus showing the handle and a securing method using threaded knobs for securing the weight bearing elements or bladders to the handle in accordance with at least one embodiment. In this view the user can either use one or two bladders based on the exercise program. In this view the fill and drain valve is accessible to the user without having to remove the bladder.

FIG. 16 is a side view of an example apparatus showing the fill and drain valve orientation relative to the handle.

FIG. 16 a is a top exploded perspective view of an example apparatus showing the fill and drain valve orientation relative to the handle.

FIG. 16 b is a cross section side view of an example apparatus showing the fill and drain valve orientation relative to the handle.

FIG. 16 c is a classical three-view drawing of an example bladder showing the fill and drain valve as well as the mounting holes 2 d, in accordance with at least one embodiment.

FIG. 17 is a detailed view of an exemplary handle showing the cross section and location of the handle relative to an optional center support plate in accordance with at least one embodiment. In this view the four threaded holes can be seen that are used to secure the weight bearing elements, or bladders to the handle.

It can be appreciated that the center support plate can provide stiffness and constrains the weight bearing elements, or bladders from moving excessively relative to the handle. It can be appreciated that the center support plate can be configured with keyhole cutouts that can mate with the proper geometry in the weight bearing elements, or bladders for the purpose of securing the weight bearing elements, or bladders to the handle assembly.

The handle in this embodiment may be designed to be injection molded of a material of similar strength to weight ratio such as a glass filled ABS material with a medium texture to allow for a secure grip. The handle may be fabricated using sand casting, lost wax casting, rubber plaster molding, or any other fabrication technique sufficient to allow for a similar geometric shape. The handle, and all of the handles disclosed, may also be over-moulded with a soft rubber like material for a more comfortable and slip resistant gripping surface.

FIG. 18 is a detailed view of another example embodiment showing a snap on weight bearing element or bladder assembly with a top mounted fill valve.

FIG. 19 is a detailed view of an example embodiment having a wrap around weight bearing element or bladder assembly that is secured by virtue of compressing the handle assembly that uses a single top mounted fill valve.

FIG. 20 is a detailed view of an example embodiment having a tubular weight bearing elements or bladder assembly that wraps around an appropriately shaped handle that may be secured by snaps or Velcro or any other suitable securing system. The tubular weight bearing element or bladder assembly of this embodiment utilizes a clamp to seal off the tube to adjust the weight based on the users needs.

FIG. 21 is a detailed view of an example embodiment having a pouch that holds weight bearing elements or a bladder assembly with an optional viewing element to provide for a measure of the weight of the assembly. The water filled element in this variant utilizes a seal similar to a Zip-Lock bag as well as other closing systems, and then is inserted into a pouch to secure the water filled element.

FIG. 22 is a detailed view of an example embodiment having a handle mounted clamping system used to secure the weight bearing element or bladder assembly to the handle. The weight bearing element or bladder assembly uses a top or bottom mounted water fill valve to make filling easier. The clamping system can be utilized for securing the weight bearing element or bladder assembly to the handle. In this drawing we show two similar or equal weight bearing elements or bladder assemblies utilized to provide greater weight for exercising.

FIG. 23 is a detailed view of an example embodiment having a plurality of weight bearing elements or bladder assemblies affixed to the handle using a simple Velcro or snap system to secure the assembly to the handle. An advantage of this embodiment is each one of the weight bearing elements or bladder assemblies can be used like a circular dumbbell, as shown in the drawing, which could prove useful as a jogging hand weight as well as an ankle weight.

FIG. 24 is a detailed view of the embodiment shown in FIG. 11 and FIG. 12 but with top mounted fill valves. In this embodiment we show a concept utilizing any one of a number of specific weight bearing elements or bladder assemblies that can be affixed to the handle using any one of the securing means disclosed.

FIG. 25 is a detailed view of an example embodiment having two nested weight bearing elements or bladder assemblies that can be filled to produce the desired weight. The inner weight bearing element or bladder assembly is surrounded by an outer weight bearing element or bladder assembly that can result in a finely tuned final weight. The weight bearing elements or bladder assemblies are secured by the handle assembly and the fill valve of the inner weight bearing element or bladder may be designed to pass through that of the outer weight bearing element or bladder.

FIG. 26 is a detailed view of an example embodiment having a weight bearing element or bladder assembly with a single fill hole and a strap that can be adjusted in one of many (three shown) positions to attain the desired weight. The strap provides for mechanical security and a way of adjusting the weight to the desired value. The user would secure the strap using the desired weight measurement indicated on the strap and then fill the bladder to the level determined by the strap constraining the maximum amount of water that could be used and therefore the weight.

FIG. 27 is a detailed view of an example embodiment having one or many (three shown here) snap on weight bearing elements or bladder assemblies to achieve a desired weight. One feature of this embodiment is that the fill valves of the weight bearing elements (or bladder assemblies) may also function as clamps that secure the weight bearing elements or bladder assemblies to the handle.

FIG. 28 shows an example method of use performing an exercise commonly referred to as an “overhead lift, curl, reach, and squat” using two hands.

FIG. 29 shows an example method of use performing an exercise commonly referred to as a “kick back” using one hand.

FIG. 30 shows an example method of use performing an exercise commonly referred to as a “kneeling side chop” using two hands.

FIG. 31 shows an example method of use performing an exercise commonly referred to as a “weighted crunch” using two hands.

FIG. 32 shows an example method of use performing an exercise commonly referred to as an “upright row” using two hands.

FIG. 33 shows an example method of use performing an exercise commonly referred to as a “half get up” using one hand.

FIG. 34 shows an example method of use performing an exercise commonly referred to as a “skull crusher” using two hands.

FIG. 35 shows an example method of use performing an exercise commonly referred to as an “overhead triceps extension” using two hands.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

FIG. 1 is a top perspective view of an example implementation showing the use of two weight bearing elements, or bladders secured to the handle, using thumb screws, that allows either or both hands to be used with the invention. The handle 1 is integral with the center support 12 that supports the base of bladder 10 that is secured to the handle 1 with the eight securing knobs 4 (six shown). The bladders 2 are shown with the logo area 11. There is sufficient room for the user's hands to grasp the handle 1 within the associated hand space 9.

FIG. 2 is a bottom perspective view of an example implementation showing the use of two weight bearing elements, or bladders secured to the handle, using thumb screws, that allows either or both hands to be used with the invention. The handle 1 supports the base of bladder 10, which is secured to the handle 1 with the eight securing knobs 4 (five shown). The bladders 2 are shown in relation to the base 10. There is sufficient room for the user's hands to grasp the handle 1 within the associated hand space 9.

FIG. 3 is a top view of an example implementation showing the top weight bearing element, or bladder secured to the handle, using thumb screws, that allows either or both hands to be used with the invention. The handle 1 is shown in relation to the bladder 2 that is secured to the handle 1 with the eight securing knobs 4 (four shown). The bladder 2 is shown with the logo area 12. There is sufficient room for the user's hands to grasp the handle 1 within the associated hand space 9.

FIG. 4 is a side view of an example implementation showing the use of two weight bearing elements, or bladders secured to the handle, using thumb screws, that allows either or both hands to be used with the invention. The handle 1 is shown in relation to the bladder 2 that is secured to the handle 1 with the eight securing knobs 4 (four shown). The bladder 2 is shown with the logo area 12.

FIG. 5 is an exploded perspective view of an example implementation showing the use of two weight bearing elements, or bladders, secured to the handle, using thumb screws, that allows either or both hands to be used with the disclosed subject matter. The handle 1 can be seen in relation to the base of the bladder 10 in the exploded view with the four thumb screws 4 and the threads 6 on the thumb screw 4 can be seen as well. In the upper section we see the filler hole 8 and the associated filler cap 7 that is used to fill and empty the bladder 2 that is secured to the bladder base 10. The bladders 2 are shown with the logo area 11. There is sufficient room for the user's hands to grasp the handle 1 within the associated hand space 9.

FIG. 6 is an exploded perspective view of an example implementation with the lower bladder assembly removed that shows the use of one weight bearing element, or bladder and how it is secured to the handle, using thumb screws, that allows either or both hands to be used with the invention. The handle 1 can be seen in relation to the base of the bladder 10 in the exploded view with the four thumb screws 4 and the threads 6 on the thumb screw 4 can be seen as well. In the upper section we see the filler hole 8 and the associated filler cap 7 that is used to fill and empty the bladder 2 that is secured to the bladder base 10. The bladders 2 are shown with the logo area 11. There is sufficient room for the user's hands to grasp the handle 1 within the associated hand space 9.

FIG. 7 is an exploded perspective view of an example implementation with the lower bladder assembly removed that shows the use of one weight bearing element, or bladder and how it is secured to the handle, using thumb screws, that allows either or both hands to be used with the disclosed subject matter. The handle is shown with the lower portion of it removed from the drawing to see the construction details. The handle 1 can be seen in relation to the base of the bladder 10 in the exploded view with the four thumb screws 4 and the threads 6 on the thumb screw 4 can be seen as well. In the upper section we see the filler hole 8 and the associated filler cap 7 that is used to fill and empty the bladder 2 that is secured to the bladder base 10. The bladder 2 is shown connected to the bladder base 10. There is sufficient room for the user's hands to grasp the handle 1 within the associated hand space 9. Additionally the handle 1 can be seen in the detail where it consists of two pieces ultrasonically, or otherwise, welded together to create the desired semi circular, or elliptical, shape of handle 1 of FIG. 6. The handle threaded inserts 14 can be seen in the handle. Additionally the inner ribs 13 can be seen within the inside of the handle to give it additional strength. Alternatively, the handle 1 may be fabricated out of a single piece of material.

FIG. 8 is a perspective view of an example implementation with the handle removed and showing one of the weight bearing elements, or bladders and where it can be secured to the handle, using thumb screws, that allows either or both hands to be used with the invention. The base of the bladder 10 can be seen with the with the four thumb screws 4 (two shown) and the threads 6 on the thumb screw 4 can be seen as well. The filler hole 8 and the associated filler cap 7 are used to fill and empty the bladder 2 that is secured to the bladder base 10 is shown.

FIG. 9 is a top view of one embodiment that has the trademark name of KoreBall showing design features as described herein.

FIG. 10 is a bottom view of one embodiment that has the trademark name of KoreBall showing design features as described herein.

FIG. 11 is a perspective view of one of the embodiments of the present invention showing the use with the middle weight bearing element, or bladder, of FIG. 12, secured to the handle that allows either or both hands to be used with the invention. The fill port can be seen that allows the invention to be emptied of liquid or water for easy transport. The text on FIG. 11 gives elemental claim like wording to capture the essence of the invention.

FIG. 12 is a perspective view of one of the embodiments of FIG. 1 illustrating three sizes of weight bearing elements, or bladders. This embodiment, shown as a “modular system”, shows the use of three differing sizes of weight bearing elements, or bladders that can be quickly changed during an exercise routine. The text on FIG. 12 gives elemental claim like wording to capture the essence of the invention.

FIG. 13 is a view showing one of the many methods of fastening the weight bearing element, or bladder to the handle. In this figure we show a fastening system consisting of a hook on the handle and a hole in the bladder assembly.

FIG. 14 is a perspective view of one of the many embodiments of a fill and drain valve of the invention providing for easy filling in a bathroom sink. The fill and drain valve can be configured as a simple plug, or a threaded plug, a simple cap similar to a bottle cap, or a threaded plug with an O-Ring to seal the weight bearing element, or bladder.

FIG. 15 is a top perspective view of an embodiment of the invention showing the handle and a preferred securing method using threaded knobs for securing the weight bearing elements or bladders to the handle. In this view it is evident that either one or two bladders may be utilized based on the exercise program. In this view the fill and drain valve is accessible to the user without having to remove the bladder.

FIG. 16 is a side view of the second preferred embodiment of the invention showing the fill and drain valve orientation relative to the handle.

FIG. 16 a is a top exploded perspective view of another embodiment of the invention showing the fill and drain valve orientation relative to the handle. The handle 1 in integral with the center support 1 a that supports the bladder 2 that is secured to the handle 1 through the mounting hole 2 d with a washer 5 that sits on top of the handle 1 with the eight securing knobs 4 (five shown). The bladders 2 are shown with the fill port 3.

FIG. 16 b is a cross section side view of another embodiment of the invention showing the fill and drain valve orientation relative to the handle. The handle 1 is seen in cross section in integral with the center support 1 a that supports the bladder 2. The interior of the bladder 2 a is where it is filled with liquid or water. The bladders 2 are shown with both the fill ports 3.

FIG. 16 c is a classical three-view drawing of an embodiment of the bladder part of the disclosed subject matter showing the fill and drain valve as well as the mounting holes 2 d. The bladder 2 is seen in cross section as well as the interior of the bladder 2 a is where it may be partially or fully filled with liquid or water. The bladders 2 are shown with both the fill ports 2 k.

FIG. 17 is a detailed view of the handle of an embodiment of the disclosed subject matter showing the cross section and location of the handles relative to an optional center support plate. In this view the four threaded holes can be seen that are used to secure the weight bearing elements, or bladders to the handle. A representative relative size is indicated as well as a manufacturing design that calls out a cored out injection molded design which may be utilized.

It can be appreciated that the center support plate will provide stiffness and constrain the weight bearing elements, or bladders from moving excessively relative to the handle. It can be appreciated that the center support plate can be configured with keyhole cutouts that can mate with the proper geometry in the weight bearing elements, or bladders for the purpose of securing the weight bearing elements, or bladders to the handle assembly.

The handle in this embodiment may be designed to be injection molded of a material of similar strength to weight ratio such as a glass filled ABS material with a medium texture to allow for a secure grip. The handle may be fabricated using sand casting, lost wax casting, rubber plaster molding, or any other fabrication technique sufficient to allow for a similar geometric shape. The handle, and all of the handles disclosed, may also be over-moulded with a soft rubber like material for a more comfortable and slip resistant gripping surface.

FIG. 18 is a detailed view of another embodiment of the inventive idea showing a concept utilizing a snap on weight bearing element or bladder assembly with a top mounted fill valve.

FIG. 19 is a detailed view of another embodiment of the disclosed subject matter showing a concept utilizing a wrap around weight bearing element or bladder assembly that is secured by virtue of compressing the handle assembly that uses a single top mounted fill valve.

FIG. 20 is a detailed view of another embodiment of the disclosed subject matter showing a concept utilizing a tubular weight bearing elements or bladder assembly that wraps around an appropriately shaped handle that may be secured by snaps or Velcro or any other viable securing system. The tubular weight bearing element or bladder assembly of this embodiment utilizes a clamp to seal off the tube to adjust the weight based on the users needs.

FIG. 21 is a detailed view of another embodiment of the disclosed subject matter showing a concept utilizing a pouch that holds weight bearing elements or a bladder assembly with an optional viewing element to provide for a measure of the weight of the assembly. The water filled element in this variant utilizes a seal similar to a Zip-Lock bag as well as other novel closing systems, and then is inserted into a pouch to secure the water filled element.

FIG. 22 is a detailed view of another embodiment of the disclosed subject matter showing a concept utilizing a handle mounted clamping system used to secure the weight bearing element or bladder assembly to the handle. The weight bearing element or bladder assembly uses a top or bottom mounted water fill valve to make filling easier. The novel concept in this embodiment is the clamping system utilized for securing the weight bearing element or bladder assembly to the handle. In this drawing we show two similar or equal weight bearing elements or bladder assemblies utilized to gain the highest weight possible.

FIG. 23 is a detailed view of another embodiment of the disclosed subject matter showing a concept utilizing a plurality of weight bearing elements or bladder assemblies affixed to the handle using a simple Velcro or snap system to secure the assembly to the handle. An advantage of this embodiment is each one of the weight bearing elements or bladder assemblies can be used like a circular dumbbell, as shown in the drawing that would prove useful as a jogging hand weight as well as an ankle weight.

FIG. 24 is a detailed view of another embodiment of the disclosed subject matter shown in FIG. 11 and FIG. 12 but with top mounted fill valves. In this embodiment we show a concept utilizing any one of a number of specific weight bearing elements or bladder assemblies that can be affixed to the handle using any one of the securing means disclosed.

FIG. 25 is a detailed view of another embodiment of the disclosed subject matter showing a concept utilizing two nested weight bearing elements or bladder assemblies that can be filled to produce the desired weight. The inner weight bearing element or bladder assembly is surrounded by an outer weight bearing element or bladder assembly that can result in a finely tuned final weight. The weight bearing elements or bladder assemblies are secured by the handle assembly and the fill valve of the inner weight bearing element or bladder may be designed to pass through that of the outer weight bearing element or bladder.

FIG. 26 is a detailed view of another preferred embodiment of the disclosed subject matter showing a concept utilizing a weight bearing element or bladder assembly with a single fill hole and a strap that can be adjusted in one of many (three shown) positions to attain the desired weight. The strap provides for mechanical security and a novel way of adjusting the weight to the desired value. The user would secure the strap using the desired weight measurement indicated on the strap and then fill the bladder to the level determined by the strap constraining the maximum amount of water that could be used and therefore the weight.

FIG. 27 is a detailed view of another embodiment showing a concept utilizing either one or many (three shown here) snap on weight bearing elements or bladder assemblies to result in the desired weight. A feature of this embodiment is that the weight bearing elements or bladder assemblies fill valve may also function as the clamps that secure the weight bearing elements or bladder assemblies to the handle.

FIG. 28 shows an example method of use performing an exercise commonly referred to as an “overhead lift, curl, reach, and squat” using two hands. FIG. 29 shows an example method of use performing an exercise commonly referred to as a “kick back” using one hand. FIG. 30 shows an example method of use performing an exercise commonly referred to as a “kneeling side chop” using two hands. FIG. 31 shows an example method of use performing an exercise commonly referred to as a “weighted crunch” using two hands.

FIG. 32 shows an example method of use performing an exercise commonly referred to as an “upright row” using two hands. FIG. 33 shows an example method of use performing an exercise commonly referred to as a “half get up” using one hand. FIG. 34 shows an example method of use performing an exercise commonly referred to as a “skull crusher” using two hands. FIG. 35 shows an example method of use performing an exercise commonly referred to as an “overhead triceps extension” using two hands.

Some implementations can include one or more collapsible and water fillable weight bearing elements (or bladder assemblies) that can be affixed to a handle so as to permit a user to perform various exercise routines. Some implementations can be easily transported in a suitcase so the user can easily carry the liquid filled portable exercise apparatus to any destination, for example as shown in FIGS. 1 through 8.

Referring to FIGS. 11 through 27, it will be appreciated that these drawings illustrate many alternate implementations. FIGS. 10 through 17 represent another implementation of the liquid filled portable exercise apparatus. Additionally, FIG. 26 represents yet another implementation of the liquid filled portable exercise apparatus.

Referring to FIG. 16 a, the two bladders 2 are shown in an exploded view relative to the handle 1 and secured with the clamping threaded knobs 4 that go through hole 2 d of bladder 2 then through washer 5 and finally into the receiving threads in handle 1. As an alternative to, or in addition to, the threaded members, the clamping system could include snap on parts, hook and loop fasteners (e.g., Velcro) or the like. The filling valve cap 3 is shown screwed into the bladder 2. The support plate 1 a is either integral or an insert part integrated into the handle 1.

Referring to FIG. 16 b, a cross section of the assembly is shown in which the bladders 2 internal section 2 a can be seen as well as the support plate 1 a of the handle 1. It can be seen that the bladders 2 are symmetrical. However, it should be appreciated that the bladders 2 can be of different sizes and design geometries.

Referring to FIG. 16 c, a classical three-view drawing can be seen illustrating the geometry of the bladder 2 with the internal section 2 a that is designed to be filled with water (or other liquid). In this view it will be appreciated that the bladder 2 can be easily compressed for storage in a suitcase. The mounting holes 2 a are shown as well as the fill valve port at 2 k.

Referring to FIG. 14, a removable and replaceable cap 38 for sealing off the aperture 32 is shown. The removable and replaceable cap 38 has an internal thread 39 and is threadably engaged on the external thread 36 of the outwardly projecting annular wall portion 34. The internal threads may also be the external threads in another embodiment of the replaceable cap where the cap 38 fits inside the aperture 32.

Referring to FIG. 16 a, the top weight bearing element 10 with the fill valve 5 of the bottom weight bearing element 20 is shown. The outer walls 30 may be made from a bi-stable plastic, rubber, or soft pliable material in order to allow the assembly to hold water as well as collapse for storage in a suitcase. Referring to FIGS. 28 through 35, a number of exemplary methods of use of the liquid filled portable exercise apparatus are shown to illustrate the flexibility of the various implementations.

Other variations of the above principles will be apparent to those of ordinary skill in the applicable arts, and such variations are considered to be within the scope of the disclosed subject matter. Further, other modifications and alterations may be used in the design and manufacture of the collapsible liquid container of the disclosed subject matter without departing from the spirit and scope of the disclosed subject matter.

It is contemplated that any optional feature of the example implementations described may be set forth and claimed independently, or in combination with any one or more of the features described herein. Reference to a singular item, includes the possibility that there is a plurality of the same items present.

More specifically, as used herein and in the appended claims, the singular forms “a,” “an,” “said,” and “the” include plural referents unless specifically stated otherwise. In other words, use of the articles allow for “at least one” of the subject item in the description above as well as the claims below. It is further noted that the claims may be drafted to exclude any optional element. As such, this statement is intended to serve as antecedent basis for use of such exclusive terminology as “solely,” “only” and the like in connection with the recitation of claim elements, or use of a “negative” limitation.

The breadth of the disclosed subject matter is not to be limited to the examples provided and/or the subject specification, but rather only by the scope of the claim language.

All references cited are incorporated by reference in their entirety. Although example implementations of the disclosed subject matter have been shown and described in detail for purposes of clarity of understanding, it is contemplated that modifications may be practiced within the scope of the disclosed subject matter. 

What is claimed is:
 1. An exercise apparatus comprising: a handle portion; and one or more bladder elements, wherein each bladder element has at least one attachment member configured to releasably attach the one or more bladder elements to the handle portion, wherein each bladder element has a sealable opening configured to permit the bladder to be filled with a liquid.
 2. The exercise apparatus of claim 1, wherein the handle portion is generally circular in plan view and has at least one hand opening.
 3. The exercise apparatus of claim 2, wherein the one or more bladder elements includes two bladders.
 4. The exercise apparatus of claim 2, wherein the at least one attachment member includes a plurality of threaded members configured to mate with corresponding threaded members on the handle portion.
 5. The exercise apparatus of claim 2, wherein the sealable opening includes a threaded port coupled to the corresponding bladder and a threaded cap adapted to be attached to the port.
 6. A liquid filled exercise apparatus comprising: a generally circular handle portion having a first hand opening on a first side and a second hand opening on a second side opposite the first side; and one or more bladder elements, wherein each bladder element has at least one attachment member configured to releasably attach the one or more bladder elements to the handle portion, wherein each bladder element has a sealable opening configured to permit the bladder to be filled with a liquid.
 7. The exercise apparatus of claim 6, wherein the one or more bladder elements includes two bladders.
 8. The exercise apparatus of claim 6, wherein the at least one attachment member includes a plurality of threaded members configured to mate with corresponding threaded members on the handle portion.
 9. The exercise apparatus of claim 6, wherein the sealable opening includes a threaded port coupled to the corresponding bladder and a threaded cap adapted to be attached to the port.
 10. The exercise apparatus of claim 2, wherein the attachment member includes a portion configured to couple to the handle using an interference fit.
 11. The exercise apparatus of claim 6, wherein the attachment member includes a portion configured to couple to the handle using an interference fit.
 12. The exercise apparatus of claim 2, wherein the sealable opening is disposed on a side of each corresponding bladder.
 13. The exercise apparatus of claim 6, wherein the sealable opening is disposed on a side of each corresponding bladder.
 14. The exercise apparatus of claim 2, wherein the sealable opening is disposed on an inside middle surface of each corresponding bladder.
 15. The exercise apparatus of claim 6, wherein the sealable opening is disposed on an inside middle surface of each corresponding bladder.
 16. An exercise apparatus comprising: a handle having two hand grips and a center support; and two bladders adapted to be secured to the handle using a plurality of thumb screws for each respective bladder.
 17. The exercise apparatus of claim 16, wherein the handle portion is generally circular in plan view and has at least one hand opening.
 18. The exercise apparatus of claim 16, wherein each bladder has a sealable opening.
 19. The exercise apparatus of claim 16, wherein the plurality of thumb screws for each bladder includes four thumb screws for each bladder.
 20. The exercise apparatus of claim 18, wherein each sealable opening includes a threaded port coupled to the corresponding bladder and a threaded cap adapted to be attached to the port. 